Mariners boss “blown away” by Institute facilities

Grimsby Town manager Ian Holloway was “blown away” by the standard of the Grimsby Institute as he visited to discuss how the two organisations can develop their positive partnership.

The Mariners boss was joined by majority shareholder John Fenty for a tour led by our Chief Executive Gill Alton and Vice Principal Julie Moore, before the four met to discuss future plans.

“I’m amazed; I knew the Institute was here but didn’t realise the scale of the success it brings to people,” he said.

“I have this genuine feeling that every one of us can shine, and the Grimsby Institute makes people shine. It’s absolutely amazing; I’m blown away by the standard of it, the quality of it and the achievements it’s helping other people reach.”

Holloway, known as Ollie to Grimsby Town fans, joined the Mariners in January and has already overseen an upturn in fortune, with the club now unbeaten in five games. He has previously managed Blackpool in the Premier League, as well as stints at QPR, Millwall, Crystal Palace and Leicester City.

“I want my players to understand what life is like for other people; how they have to learn and what they have to do to make a living,” he added.

“Football is something you do instinctively; you’re either good at it or you’re not and you end up at the right level for you. I want them to feel more about who they’re playing for and why they’re playing for them.

“I found it helped me at Blackpool and I know it will help here, because it gives you some pride about the area. It’s important to be proud of where you are and what you are, so I hope my team’s performances will help the people of the area to be proud of them and vice versa.

“Having the interaction between my players and the Institute will be fantastic – especially for me, I love art and want to bring my wife into some of these classes to learn, it’s marvellous.”

Chief Executive Gill Alton also commented: “We are delighted to have welcomed Ian Holloway and John Fenty to the Institute for this positive discussion about our future working relationship.

“Ollie’s overwhelming enthusiasm and passion for learning has shone through since he joined the Mariners. The positive influence he’s had on players, fans and the wider community is clear to see.

“We look forward to working closely with the club in future, providing exciting learning opportunities which benefit both our own students and Grimsby Town Football Club.”